Project GREEN officials have been discussing plans for the Ashton House property since last fall, with help from local landscape architect Laura Hawks, and began the planting process this spring.

The next step will be transforming the property entrance into a welcoming sight for visitors.

"We want to have some nice, bright flowers that say, 'Hey, there's something really special in here,' " Project GREEN co-president Cindy Parsons said. "We just need to take it one step at a time."

Built more than 65 years ago by famed bridge architect Ned Ashton, the virtually flood-proof Ashton House was one of the only houses in the Parkview Terrace neighborhood not demolished after the 2008 flood.

Although it was purchased by the city like dozens of neighboring homes after the flood, the Ashton House was saved by its listing on the National Register of Historic Places, and the city is in the process of converting the home into a center for small events and meetings.

Parks and Recreation Director Mike Moran said work on a handicapped accessible ramp should be finished this month and the building will open soon. It already has started drawing reservations for celebrations, weddings and reunions.

Established in 1968, Project GREEN is a local organization with the goal of enhancing and beautifying green spaces throughout the community.

Co-president Diane Allen said the group's latest project at the Ashton House fits perfectly into that original mission of beautification through sustainable initiatives and community planning.

Flowers planted decades ago by the Ashton family will be incorporated into the municipal garden and peonies from plants originally planted by Project GREEN founder Nancy Seiberling will also be included.

"That's pretty exciting and that brings it all around, this whole circle of beautifying Iowa City," Allen said.

Reach Mitchell Schmidt at maschmidt@press-citizen.com or at 887-5402.

For more information or to contact Project GREEN, go to www.projectgreen.org.